Do colleges with rolling admissions fill up quickly?

I'm thinking of applying to some schools with rolling admissions, but I'm concerned spots might fill up fast. Should I submit my application earlier than usual to increase my chances of acceptance?

Yes, for schools with rolling admissions, applying earlier can be beneficial. These colleges begin reviewing applications as they come in and continue until all spots are filled. Typically, these colleges start accepting applications in the early fall and can accept applications up until the summer before the academic year begins – although deadlines can vary by school.

As they review applications on an ongoing basis, it's possible for them to fill all available spots well before their final deadline. Because this is a first-come, first-served system, earlier applicants often have a better chance of acceptance as they'll be competing against fewer candidates for more spots. Similarly, if you apply closer to the final deadline, there might be fewer spots available, potentially making admission more competitive, and some majors or programs may already be full.

However, keep in mind that while it's important to submit your application early, it's equally important to submit a well-prepared and thoroughly-reviewed application. So, don't rush your application at the expense of quality, but do work to submit it as soon as you can without doing so. Aim to have a complete, strong application ready to go ahead of the general applicant pool. It's about balance - meeting the early submission targets and also making sure your application showcases the best of your achievements.